What best describes gender identity?

Gender identity refers to the deeply held internal perception of oneself as male, female, a blend of both, or neither. It encompasses how individuals personally experience and understand their own gender, which may not necessarily align with their biological sex at birth. This inner sense of self is intrinsic and can manifest in various ways, including through expression, behavior, and personal identification.

Other options focus on external factors: biological sex is strictly about physical attributes, social roles reflect societal expectations and norms, and legal recognition pertains to how individuals are acknowledged within the legal system. While these aspects can influence and intersect with a person's gender identity, they do not capture its essence as the personal and internal understanding of one's gender.